MX2013008962A

MX2013008962A - Device for dispensing an additive.

Info

Publication number: MX2013008962A
Application number: MX2013008962A
Authority: MX
Inventors: Guy Monsallier; Virginie Harle; Dominique Horbez; Michael Lallemand
Original assignee: Filtrauto
Priority date: 2011-02-02
Filing date: 2012-02-01
Publication date: 2014-01-08
Also published as: RU2557824C2; CN103534471A; FR2971016A1; JP2014507593A; KR20140006015A; WO2012104552A1; JP5756533B2; BR112013019673A2; FR2971016B1; US20130306028A1; EP2670966B1; US9267465B2; KR101517126B1; CA2825363C; FR2971017A1; CA2825363A1; FR2971017B1; ES2546779T3; EP2670966A1; CN103534471B

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (8) for dispensing a liquid additive into a fuel circulation circuit for an internal combustion engine, comprising a reservoir (12) of liquid additive allowing an additive to be distributed into the fuel circulation circuit by means of a distribution line (16), characterized in that it comprises an additive chamber (22) in communication with the fuel circulation circuit and at least one wall (32) that is mobile and fluidtight between said additive chamber and the additive reservoir which, on the one hand, provides a fluidtight division and, on the other hand, maintains equal pressure between the additive in the additive reservoir and the fuel in the additive chamber.

Description

DEVICE FOR DISTRIBUTING AN ADDITIVE TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION The technical field of the present invention is that of internal combustion engines, mainly motor vehicles and, more specifically, a device for distributing a liquid additive in the fuel flow circuit of the internal combustion engine.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION New engine technologies, such as diesel engines with the common rail system and high-pressure fuel injection, are very efficient, but they are very sensitive to fuel quality. Therefore, there are advantages to using a fuel that contains additives that improve its quality, in particular the additives for the improvement of the fuel distribution in the engine, the additives to improve the performance of the engine and the additives to improve the stability of the operation of the engine. The quality of commercially available fuels does not allow in all cases to feed the vehicle with a good quality fuel additive.

In addition, in order to comply with the new regulations for the control of vehicle emissions, particularly diesel vehicles, vehicles are progressively equipped with particle filters (FAP, for its acronym in French). This is already the case in Europe since the introduction of the Euro 5 standard. In most cases a catalyst is used to help burn the soot periodically and, thus, to regenerate the FAP. Currently, effectively regenerating the FAP is not enough to stop the emission of black smoke and soot. Nowadays, the main challenge is to simultaneously reduce emissions of C02 and NOx nitrogen oxides, as well as to maintain a reliable, efficient and economical vehicle, especially in the presence of biofuels. The vehicle must also be competitive with respect to concurrent "gasoline" offers and "hybrids". The use of an additive for the regeneration of the FAP, vectorized by the fuel supplied to the engine or, even better, to the Fuel Catalyst (FBC, Fuel Borne Catalyst), which shows that it meets several criteria because it allows faster regeneration of the fuel. FAP faster and at a lower temperature than the competition technology of the Soot Catalytic Filter (CSF, for its acronym in English). In addition, the FBC technology has no restriction on the NOx / soot ratio, which is essential to integrate a catalyst to eliminate NOx from the perspective of the 6 Euro standard in 2014.

Therefore, it is advantageous to equip the vehicle with a device that allows adding an additive to the fuel for the regeneration of the FAP and / or fuel additives that improves the quality of the fuel and / or the operation of the engine and / or durability.

It is known that there are systems that allow these additives to be introduced into the fuel, in particular, the catalytic additives of CBF help to regenerate the FAP. In general, these systems are based on a large capacity tank of at least 2 to 3 liters of volume that contains the additive reserve and must be located in areas near the fuel tank.

The current strategies for the dosing of additives also require high precision metering pumps, this must be ordered through a specific and additional electronic unit (or ECU). The dosing device should be handled with care to ensure a sufficient level of fuel additive to allow adequate regeneration of the FAP, but not in excess to avoid premature obstruction of the FAP by mineral regeneration residues of the FAP that are collected in the same. Normally, when the fuel level rises in the tank, after the addition of fuel, the computer indicates to the pump the amount of additive to be injected into the tank to maintain a constant concentration of additive in the fuel of the tank.

These dosing pumps are extremely accurate and their cost is not insignificant in the aspect of the global economy. In the same way, the management of the ECU of the system also involves in an important way in the cost of the complete system.

The use of this strategy also involves submitting the dosing system well and checking its good operating status, which is particularly intrusive in the management of vehicle failure modes.

Regarding maintenance, the refueling is quite difficult and is carried out through an adapted relationship between the filling needs and the additive device.

For example, diesel vehicles of the PSA group are equipped with such a device.

In some geographical areas, such as in emerging countries, it is difficult to ensure that the deposit will be filled well and effectively during the life of the vehicle. Therefore, it is necessary to overcome this risk that could damage the image of the car manufacturer.

It is sometimes necessary to add additive in the fuel of motor vehicles to change the intrinsic qualities of the fuel or to act on the fuel distribution circuit or after combustion. For example, they are antifungal agents, lubricant additives, detergent additives, antifreeze agents or also additives that have a helping function in the regeneration of particle filters, such as BCF.

These additives can be added to the fuel during filling of the fuel tank, can be supplied in a diffuse and continuous way in the fuel distribution circuit can also be injected intermittently, depending on the specific parameters which may be, for example, fuel temperature, instantaneous or average fuel consumption, engine speed or time intervals.

It is already known that patent FR2668203 describes the introduction of an additive for regenerating the particulate filter in the fuel tank when filling the latter. This technical solution has the disadvantage of requiring an important volume tank for additive as well as an electronic system for measuring the refueling of the fuel tank. In addition, this technical solution increases the weight of the vehicle and so the fuel consumption.

Also known are patents EP1061251 and US7153422 which describe a fuel filter comprising an additive reservoir, the latter being released in the fuel distribution circuit. This technical solution has the disadvantage that the fuel dissolves or dilutes the additive in the deposit of the additive, this does not allow to control the concentration of the additive released in the fuel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Therefore, the object of the invention to overcome these technical problems is to provide a device for distributing a low volume of liquid additive and the composition of the liquid additive would not undergo any significant change in the course of time.

Accordingly, the present application relates to a device for distributing a liquid additive in a fuel flow circuit to the internal combustion engine, said circuit ensuring the flow of fuel from the interior of a fuel tank and the engine, the device comprises: - a reservoir of liquid additive that allows the diffusion of an additive in the fuel flow circuit by means of a distribution channel; - a container of the additive in communication with the fuel flow circuit; Y - at least one mobile and airtight wall between said additive container and the additive reservoir serving, on the one hand, as a hermetic separation and on the other hand to maintain an equal pressure between the additive in the additive reservoir and the fuel in the additive container.

According to a feature of the invention, the additive reservoir is in the form of a flexible bag and said flexible bag is formed by the mobile and hermetic wall.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the mobile and hermetic wall is formed by a membrane.

According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the mobile and hermetic wall is formed by a piston.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the device comprises a fuel inlet orifice, an outlet orifice of fuel, an additive supply orifice and means for generating the pressure difference between the fuel inlet or outlet orifice and the additive distribution orifice. Preferably, these means for generating the pressure difference are means generating a negative pressure between the additive distribution orifice and the fuel inlet or outlet orifice, the additive distribution orifice is disposed at the level of these generating means. negative pressure According to another feature of the invention, the means generating a negative pressure are in the form of a diaphragm or a diffuser.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the means for generating the pressure difference are in the form of a filtering element ..

According to another feature of the invention, the device comprises an additive distribution channel and total or partial sealing means of the additive distribution channel.

According to another feature of the invention, the sealing means of the additive distribution channel are electromechanical means.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the device for distributing the additive comprises a fuel filtering device comprising at least one filtering element.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the filtering element is annular in shape and the additive deposit is arranged concentrically inside said filtering element.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the filtering element is annular in shape and the additive deposit is arranged concentrically on the outside of the filtering element.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the filtering element and the additive deposit are axially superposed.

According to another feature of the invention, the fuel passes through the filtering element, which defines an upstream side, which is located upstream of the filtering element, where the unfiltered fuel flow and a downstream side they are arranged between the filtering element and the combustion engine, where the filtering fuel flows and where the additive is released from the upstream side.

According to another feature of the invention, the fuel passes through the filtering element, which defines an upstream side, which is located upstream of the filtering element, where the unfiltered fuel flow and a downstream side they are arranged between the filtering element and the combustion engine, where the filtered fuel flows and where the additive is released from the downstream side.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the additive is released in the fuel return line of the internal combustion engine, downstream of the injection system and ensures the return of excess fuel to the fuel tank.

According to another feature of the invention, the movable wall is disposed between the additive reservoir and the upstream side.

According to another feature of the invention, the movable wall is disposed between the additive reservoir and the downstream side.

According to a particular feature, all or part of the device for dispensing additive is disposed in the fuel tank (the additive container is also placed in the fuel tank). Eventually, the fuel flow circuit (which communicates with the additive container) ensures the return of the fuel flow from the engine to the interior of the fuel tank.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the additive is an additive regeneration of particle filters in the form of a colloidal dispersion of particles based on a rare earth and / or a metal selected from the groups MA, IVA, VIIA, VIII, IB, MB, IIIB and IVB of the periodic table.

According to another feature of the invention, the additive is in the form of a colloidal dispersion.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the particles of the colloidal dispersion are based on cerium and / or iron.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the additive is a combination of a colloidal dispersion of particles comprising an organic phase and at least one amphiphilic agent and a detergent based on a quaternary ammonium salt.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the additive is a combination of a detergent additive and a lubricant additive.

The invention also relates to μ? device for distributing a liquid additive in a fuel flow circuit to the internal combustion engine, which is located in the fuel tank, comprising a reservoir of liquid additive for releasing an additive in the circuit the flow of fuel through a distribution channel, an additive container communicating with the fuel flow circuit and at least one mobile and hermetic wall between said additive container and the additive reservoir serving, first, as a hermetic separation and, on the other hand part and maintains an identical pressure between the additive in the additive device and the fuel in the additive container and at least one filtering element, characterized in that it comprises, first, a release head for permanent assembly in the circuit of fuel flow and because it comprises an additive distribution channel in the fuel flow circuit and also, on the other hand, art, a cartridge comprising the filtering element, the additive reservoir and the movable and hermetic wall, said cartridge is removably mounted on the release head.

An advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that it integrates a diffuser additive as well as in the design of new engines in existing engines.

Another advantage of the invention lies in the possibility of precisely releasing a defined amount of additive.

Another advantage of the invention lies in the possibility of releasing multiple types of additives independently of their composition and / or their physicochemical properties.

Another advantage of the invention lies in the ability to direct the release of the additive according to different parameters.

Another advantage of the invention lies in its compactness.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of various embodiments, set forth by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a device for distributing an additive in a fuel flow circuit for an internal combustion engine according to the invention; Figure 2 is a sectional view showing a liquid additive dispenser according to a first embodiment of the invention; 3 to 5 are graphs showing the change in the concentration of an additive in fuel according to various parameters; of Figures 6 to 13 are sectional views showing other embodiments of the invention for integrating the liquid additive dispenser into a fuel filter, and Figure 14 is a schematic representation of a device for distributing an additive in a fuel flow circuit for an internal combustion engine according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Figure 1 is a schematically represents a circuit 1 of fuel flow for an internal combustion engine. Normally, the fuel flow circuit 1 is arranged between a fuel tank 2 and the high pressure ramp 4 (also called "common rail") and ensures the flow of fuel between the interior of the tank and the high pressure ramp. The supply circuit comprises a filter 9 designed to filter the fuel, and a high-pressure pump 7. The high-pressure pump 7 and the high-pressure ramp 4 constitute the fuel injection system. A first conduit 5, called "feed line", ensures the flow of fuel from inside the tank 2 towards the high pressure ramp 4 and a second pipe 6, called "return line", ensures the flow of fuel from the injection system to the interior of the tank 2. The fuel is pumped into the tank 2, after being filtered in the filter 9 is sent under pressure, through the pump 7 in the high pressure ramp 4 and one part is then directed towards the injectors 3 of the engine and another part returns to the interior of the tank 2 by the return line 6. A part of the fuel can also be sent from the high-pressure pump 7 to the return line 6. The fuel flow circuit 1 also comprises a device 8 for distributing liquid additive in accordance with the invention, the operation of which will be described later. By way of illustration and not limitation, the device 8 can be specifically arranged in the feeding line 5 and in this case inside the tank 2 as shown in figure 1, or outside it as shown in the figure 14, or in the return line 6 and in this case the device 8 can be provided inside or outside the fuel tank 2.

Figure 2 represents, in transverse view, a first embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment example, the device 8 for distributing an additive comprises a head 10 and a replaceable cartridge 11 that form an additive container 22 in which a reservoir 12 of liquid additive is disposed. The head 10 comprises a fuel inlet orifice 3, a fuel outlet orifice 14, a diffuser 21 placed between the inlet and outlet orifices of the fuel. fuel, a conduit 18 that ensures a passage of fuel between the fuel inlet orifice and the additive container 22 inside the replaceable cartridge 1 1 and an additive distribution channel 16 that ensures the passage of liquid additive from the reservoir 12 to an additive release orifice 17 in the diffuser 21. In this exemplary embodiment, the additive distribution channel 16 has a first portion 16a and a second portion 16b of reduced section. An actuator 15, formed by a bolt 20 and a coil 23 that make it possible to block the passage between the portions 16a and 16b of the channel for distributing the additive. In this exemplary embodiment (as well as in figures 6 to 10), the additive reservoir 12 has a flexible bag shape 32 constituting a mobile and hermetic wall between the fuel present in the additive container 22 and the additive inside of deposit 12.

The operation of the invention is as follows: The device 8 for distributing an additive is connected to the feed line or to the fuel return line. The fuel also flows continuously between the holes 13 and 14, inlet and outlet of the fuel.

The diffuser 21, which constitutes means for generating pressure difference, generates a negative pressure between the orifice 17 for distributing additive and the fuel inlet orifice 13.

The additive container 22, communicated through the conduit 18 with the fuel inlet orifice 13, is filled with fuel thereto. pressure that the fuel flows in the fuel inlet orifice 13, the flexible bag 32 constituting the mobile and hermetic wall of the additive tank, maintains an identical pressure between the additive in the additive tank 12 and the fuel in the container 22 .

The pressure in the additive reservoir 12 is greater than the pressure at the level of the additive release orifice 17, thereby forcing the additive to move from the reservoir 12 to the orifice 17 for the release of additive after release in the fuel flowing through the diffuser 21 and therefore into the fuel flow circuit. The actuator 15 totally or partially prevents the flow of the additive. It is understood, in particular as is evident in FIGS. 1-2, that the orifice 17 for the release of the additive allows the additive to be released in a conduit of the fuel flow circuit 1, that is, in the fuel flowing between the interior of the tank 2 of fuel and the engine. Unlike a direct release of additive in the fuel tank, it is understood that this release mode does not require any particular measurement of the fill level of the fuel tank.

In this embodiment example, the actuator 15 illustrates an electromechanical means of total or partial sealing of the additive distribution channel. However, the use of such means is optional and it is, of course, possible to carry out the invention without clogging the additive distribution channel or by other means of sealing the additive distribution channel, for example a thermovalve, an "umbrella" valve, a check valve or a hydraulic control valve.

Figures 3-5 are embodiments of releasing an additive consisting of a colloidal suspension of iron-containing particles as the dispersion C of example 3 of WO 2010/150040 in a fuel with the aid of a device for distributing an additive of according to the invention and the measurement of the concentration of the additive in the fuel. Iron is an additive marker element that is in the form of a colloidal suspension and whose concentration is easily measured in the fuel by any technique known as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy It goes without saying that the invention is not limited to the use of iron in colloidal suspension and concerning any type of additive, as indicated in other sections of this description.

Figures 3 and 4 illustrate the evolution of the concentration of an additive in a fuel, downstream according to the invention. In this embodiment example, the fuel is flowed, without reflux, with a flow rate of 160 liters per hour in a device such as the one described in figure 2. The input section of the fuel line 13 is 6 mm and comprises a diffuser 21 of 5.06 mm in diameter that subjects the additive to a pressure difference of 16 mbar in relation to the fuel pressure. The additive is distributed in the fuel by means of a channel 16b of additive distribution with a length of 21 mm and with a diameter of 0.6 mm.

Figure 3 illustrates the concentration of the additive in a continuous release and Figure 4 shows the concentration of additive in a discontinuous distribution and controlled by an electromagnetic valve 15. In Figure 3 it can be seen that the concentration of iron in the fuel is stable during the test that reflects an additive constant. Figure 4 also indicates that the electromagnetic valve allows good removal of any additive when closed. When open, it is observed that the instantaneous concentration of additive in the fuel is substantially identical to the continuous diffusion measurement (Figure 3). Therefore, it seems that the use of an electromagnetic valve advantageously allows the additive to be released in a discontinuous manner and to control the release of additive, for example, when making a graffle. The addition profile can be controlled, both at the time of addition (duration of the addition and duration of the non-addition) and frequency of addition (alternating frequency of the addition or non-addition periods). The control can be defined in the design or it can be variable in time or as a function of external parameters, for example, as certain motor parameters.

This device also allows to eliminate the addition during periods of inactivity or storage of the vehicle.

Depending on the type of additive, the referred additive rates, or other parameters such as the addition profile, it is advantageous to adjust the dimensions of the system, especially the diffuser 21 and the diffusion channel 16.

Figures 5 illustrate the evolution of the concentration of additive in a fuel, in a reflux circuit. This figure simulates changes in concentration of additive, always through the concentration of iron, in the fuel of a tank of a vehicle depending on the volume of fuel consumed (mi). The fuel flows at a flow rate of 160 L / h from the tank passing through the device described in figure 3 then returns to the tank and is considered as a fuel consumption of the vehicle of 3 L / h (60 km / h for a fuel consumption of 5L / 100 km). The initial amount of fuel in the tank is 60 liters and a tank filling is considered for 55 liters when the tank reaches a level below 5 liters. It is observed that for a constant injection of additive corresponding to that of Figure 3 through the device according to the invention, the concentration of iron is stabilized between 1 and 12 ppm of iron, which allows a controlled average amount of additive to be added to the iron. gas.

Figures 6 to 13 illustrate a device according to the invention comprising at least one filtering element.

Figure 6 illustrates a first variant embodiment of the invention. In this variant of mode, the head 10 is identical to that shown in Figure 2, and the additive reservoir 12 is also formed by a flexible bag 32. The cartridge 11 comprises a hermetic wall 30 delimiting, in cooperation with the walls of the cartridge, on the one hand, the additive container 22 in which the additive tank 12 is arranged liquid and on the other hand, a filtering container 24 in which a filtering element 25 is arranged. Therefore, the additive reservoir 12 and the filtration element 25 are arranged side by side but separated by the hermetic wall 30. The filtering element 25 is annular in shape and the fuel passes through it. The filter element 25 defines in the filter container 24, on the one hand, an unfiltered fuel zone, or "upstream side 28", between the interior of the fuel tank 2 (not shown in this figure) and the element of filtration 25, in which the unfiltered fuel flows and and a filtered fuel zone or "downstream side 29", disposed between the filtering element 25 and the combustion engine (not shown in this figure), where the filtered fuel. This embodiment advantageously allows to independently ensure the functions of filtering the fuel and distributing the liquid additive. Therefore, the fuel filter is connected to the feed line 5, while the distribution of the additive can be carried out both at the feed line 5 and at the level of the return line 6.

Figure 7 illustrates a second embodiment variant of the invention. In this variant embodiment, the additive reservoir 12 and the filtering element 25 are arranged side by side, separated by the wall 30, but the communication channel 18 allows the fuel to flow directly between the downstream side 29 of the filtering element and the additive container 22 in which it is disposed in the additive tank 12 liquid. The fuel inlet orifice 13 of the head 10 is directly connected to the downstream side 29 of the filtering element. The additive release orifice 17 is disposed at the level of the fuel supply line, between the downstream side 29 of the filtering element and the internal combustion engine (not shown). Therefore, the movable wall 32 is disposed between the additive reservoir 12 and the downstream side 29 of the filtering element and the additive is released on the downstream side 29 of the filtering element.

Figure 8 illustrates another embodiment variant of the invention. In this embodiment variant, the additive reservoir 12 and the filtration element 25 are axially superimposed on the cartridge 1 1, a communication channel allows the fuel to flow between the upstream side of the filtering element and the reservoir. additive 22 in which a reservoir 12 of liquid additive is disposed. The additive reservoir 12 is connected to the additive distribution channel 16 by means of a tube 31 whose upper end cooperates with the lower end of the first portion 16a of the channel 16 of the additive distribution. Here the tube 31 is coaxial with the annular filtering element 25 and passes hermetically through its center. In this embodiment example, the tube 31 is fixed to the additive reservoir 12. The additive-releasing orifice 17 is disposed at the level of the fuel supply line, between the upstream side 28 of the filtering element and the inside of the fuel tank 2 (not shown). Therefore, the movable wall 32 is disposed between the additive tank 12 and the running side 28 of the filtering element and the additive is released on the upstream side 28 of the filtering element.

Figure 9 illustrates another embodiment variant of the invention. In this variant of mode, the filtering element 25 is annular in shape and the additive reservoir 12 is arranged concentrically inside said filtering element 25. The fuel flows, in this example, radially from the outside to the outside. inside of the filtration element 25 and the additive release orifice 17 is disposed at the level of the fuel supply line, between the downstream side 29 of the filtering element and the internal combustion engine (not shown). Therefore, the movable wall 32 is disposed between the additive reservoir 12 and the downstream side 29 of the filtering element and the additive is released on the downstream side 29 of the filtering element.

Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment variant of the invention. In this embodiment variant, the additive reservoir 12 and the filtration element 25 are axially superposed, separated by a wall but a communication channel 18 allows the fuel to flow between the upstream side 28 of the filtration element 25 and the additive container 22 in which the liquid additive reservoir 12 is disposed. The additive release orifice 17 is disposed at the level of the fuel supply line, between the downstream side 29 of the filtering element and the internal combustion engine (not shown). Therefore, the movable wall 32 is disposed between the additive tank 12 and the upstream side 28 of the filtering element 25 and the additive is released by the downstream side 29 of the filtering element. In this embodiment, the means for generating the pressure difference are made by means of the filtering element 25.

Figure 11 is a variant of the device illustrated in Figure 10 in which the mobile and hermetic wall is formed by a membrane 33.

Figure 12 is a variant of the device illustrated in Figure 10 in which the movable and hermetic wall is formed by a piston 34.

These modalities are by way of illustrative title and in no case are they limiting. The invention may have other modalities. For example, the means for generating the pressure difference may have a diaphragm shape or the additive reservoir may be arranged concentrically on the outside of the filter element.

Figure 13 illustrates another variant embodiment of the invention. In this variant of the embodiment, the additive is released in the fuel return line 6 of the internal combustion engine, downstream of the injection system and into the fuel tank 2 (not shown in the figure). The device for dispensing a liquid additive in this illustrated manner comprises, on the one hand, a diffusion head 10 for being permanently mounted in the fuel flow circuit and comprising an additive distribution channel 16 in the fuel circuit and, on the other hand, a cartridge 11 comprising a filtering element 25, a reservoir 12 and a mobile and airtight wall 32, the cartridge 11 is assembled from removable shape on the release head 10. In this embodiment example, the tube 31 that allows the flow of additive from the additive reservoir 12 to the distribution channel 16 is fixed to the head 10 and comprises a bevelled end for piercing the elastic bag 32 when the cartridge 1 1 is fixed to the head 10.

The examples of modality illustrated in Figures 2 and 6 to 13 are provided in an indicative manner and are in no way limiting. The number of examples is limited by the number of claimants so as not to overload the demand. The person skilled in the art will understand that the invention also relates to the modalities not represented in this document but which result from the combination of several modes described above or from the replacement of one or several characteristics of a figure by the characteristics of another figure.

The device of the invention can transport all kinds of additive contained in the fuel. These additives, which will be described below, can be classified into two categories: on the one hand, those that have a catalytic function to help the regeneration of the FAP, normally called Soot Catalyst Filter (BCF) and, on the other hand, those that have a different function to a catalytic function.

The additives can be in liquid or solid form. The liquid form comprises all the additives constituted by a liquid or a mixture of liquids, in colloidal suspension in a liquid base, in gel form whose viscosity allows the creep of the additive or of a solid to pass then in liquid form of a heating action or under the action of a tension prior to the addition in the fuel.

The BBF Preferably, these additives are liquid in the operating temperature range, usually between 20 and 45 ° C, but may also be in another physical form such as a gel or a solid which upon contact with the fuel dissolves or It is put in suspension in the fuel. In case of suspension in the fuel, it occurs mainly in the case of said colloidal suspensions which will be described later. In all cases, once the fuel contains the additive, it presents a visually homogeneous appearance. These additives can contain any type of effective catalyst to catalyze the combustion of the soot, in particular, platinum, strontium, sodium, manganese, cerium, iron and / or their combinations.

In general, the amount of additive in the fuel is at least about 1 ppm and not more than about 100 ppm, this amount is expressed by weight of the metallic additive element with respect to the weight of fuel.

These additives may be in the form of an organometallic salt or a mixture of organometallic salts soluble or dispersible in the fuel. These salts are characterized in that they comprise at least one metal portion and a complex organic portion generally of acid origin, while they are suspended in a solvent.

The organic portion of the salt contains at least one hydrocarbon group and at least one complexing portion, each organic portion may contain one or more complexing units. In general, this complexing portion is of acid origin and may be of the carboxylate, sulfonate, phosphonate, salicylate, naphthenate or phenate type. The hydrocarbon group may be of the saturated or unsaturated aliphatic type and comprises cyclic units. The number of carbon atoms in this group is between 6 to 200.

Salts of branched saturated aliphatic carboxylic acids are preferred.

The metal portion of this salt can be ionic in form, in carbonate form, in hydroxide form, in oxide form or as a mixture.

The salts can be overbased, that is, they contain an excess of metal species on the acid / metal stoichiometry necessary to obtain the complex.

The organometallic salts can also be acidic. In this case, they contain an excess of carboxylic acid in relation to the acid / metal stoichiometry necessary to obtain a complex and contain up to about 20% free acid that is unreacted.

These organometallic salts may also be neutral in that they contain a stequmetric metal and carboxylate ratio.

The solvent used to prepare these stable solutions or dispersions of additive may be a liquefied petroleum fraction, a synthetic hydrocarbon, an oxygenated hydrocarbon, an alcohol solvent such as hexanol or 2-ethylhexanol. Specifically, traditional examples include kerosene, hydrotreated kerosene, paraffins and isoparaffin solvents, naphthenic aliphatic solvents, aromatic solvents, dimers and oligomers of propylene, butene and the like, and mixtures thereof. Commercial products such as "Solvesso", "Varsol", "Norpar" and "Isopar" are suitable. These solvent groups may also contain functional groups other than carbon and hydrogen. Preferably, the solvent has a flash point greater than 20 ° C, more preferably greater than 40 ° C, preferably greater than 55 ° C.

These salts can be prepared from said acids and from a metal salt soluble or dispersible in water.

As iron compound, ferrous and ferric acetylacetonate, iron naphthenate, iron oleate, iron octoate, iron stearate, iron neodecanoate as described in patent EP 13448 3 may be included by way of example; the iron alkenyl and alkyl succinates and, in general, the iron salts of C6 to C24 carboxylic acids.

As a cerium compound, the same may be included and by way of example, the cerium acetylacetonates, the cerium naphthenate, the oleate of cerium, cerium octoate, cerium stearate, cerium neodecanoate, cerium alkenyl and alkyl succinates and, in general, cerium salts of C6-C24 carboxylic acids.

The FCB additives may also be in the form of an organometallic complex or a mixture of organometallic complexes soluble or dispersible in the fuel. These complexes are characterized in that they comprise at least one metal portion and at least two organic complexing portions.

In fact, in the prior art it is known that several organometallic complexes such as those described in GB 2,254,610 are effective to eliminate the emission of particles from the combustion of liquid hydrocarbons. These complexes also have other advantages such as high solubility and dispersibility in the fuel or good thermal stability.

The metal portion of this complex is present in ionic form from which, the charge may vary depending on the nature of the metal.

The organic portion of this complex contains at least one hydrocarbon group and at least one complexing portion which may be the same hydrocarbon group. The complexing portion interacts with the metal cation through the pair of electrons of a heteroatom selected from O, S and N or a unsaturated cyclic group such as phenyls or cyclopentadienyls.

In the case of iron, ferrocene-type complexes are preferred. The ferrocene portion of the complexes can be substituted by groups of the alkyl, aryl, halide, hydroxy, nitro, alkoxy, cyclic, ester type, see for a ferrocene group, as described in the patent application US 7,452,388.

The solvent used to prepare these stable solutions or dispersions of the additive is preferably an organic solvent in which the complex or complexes are dissolved. Suitable organic solvents comprise highly aromatic solvents. However, if desired, an aromatic, non-aromatic or slightly aromatic solvent may be used. In the case of the latter, the absolute solubility of the complex will be lower than in very aromatic solvents, but in general this solubility is sufficient. In particular, an aromatic solvent with aromatic systems of 9 to 16 carbon atoms, comprising a boiling point between 170 and 295 ° C and a total aromatic substance content of more than 98% by weight is suitable. For example, the PLUTOsol ™ APF is a suitable solvent.

According to a variant, the CBF additives are used in the form of a colloidal suspension or dispersion of nanoparticles, for example, of metal, amorphous or crystallized oxide or oxyhydroxide.

The term "colloidal dispersion" is understood herein as any system consisting of solid fine particles of colloidal dimensions based on the additive, in suspension in a liquid phase, said On the other hand, particles may also contain residual amounts of bound or adsorbed ions, such as, for example, nitrates, acetates, citrates, ammoniums or chlorides. By colloidal dimensions, the dimensions comprising between about 1 nm and about 500 nm are understood. More particularly, the particles may have a maximum average size around 250 nm, specifically at most 100 nm, preferably at most 20 nm and even more preferably at most 15 nm. It should be noted that in such dispersions, the compound of the additive may be either, preferably, entirely in the form of colloids or in the form of colloids and partly in the form of ions.

The granulometry described above and the following description, unless otherwise determined, is determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in a conventional manner, in a sample dried and pre-deposited in a carbon membrane supported on a copper grid.

In the case of CBF additives in the form of colloidal dispersion, the particles may be based on a rare earth and / or a metal selected from the groups MA, IVA, VIIA, VIII, IB, MB, IIIB and IVB of the periodic table.

The term rare earth is understood as the elements of the group consisting of yttrium and the elements of the periodic table with atomic numbers including between 57 and 71.

The periodic table of the elements referred to is the one published in the Supplement to the Bulletin of the Chemical Society of France No. 1 (January 1966).

For such additives it can be used in the form of a colloidal dispersion, the rare earth can be chosen more particularly among cerium, lanthanum, trio, neodymium, gadolinium and praseodymium. In particular, you can choose the cerium. The metal can be selected from zirconium, iron, copper, gallium, palladium and manganese. In particular, iron can be chosen. The iron may be in the form of an amorphous or crystallized compound.

More particularly, the colloidal dispersions based on a combination of cerium and iron can also be mentioned.

More particularly, colloidal dispersions may comprise: * - an organic phase; - the. particles of the additive, of the type described herein (in particular, rare earth and / or a metal selected from the groups MA, IVA, VIIA, IB, MB, MB and IVB), in suspension in the organic phase; - at least one amphiphilic agent.

The organic phase can be a hydrocarbon, more particularly, polar.

Examples of the organic phase include aliphatic hydrocarbons such as hexane, heptane, octane, nonane, inert cycloaliphatic hydrocarbons such as cyclohexane, cyclopentane, cycloheptane, aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes, liquid naphienes. Also suitable are the oil fractions of the Isopar or Solvesso type (trademarks registered by the Exxon Company), mainly Solvesso 100, which essentially contains a mixture of methylethyl and thymol-benzene, Solvesso 150 containing a mixture of alkylbenzenes, in particular dimethylbenzene and of tetramethylbenzene and Isopar containing, essentially, the iso and cyclo-paraffinic hydrocarbons of Cu and C12. Those of the Petrolink® type from the Petrolink company or the Isane® type from the company Total can also be included.

Chlorinated hydrocarbons, such as chlorobenzene or dichlorobenzene, chlorotoluene, can also be used for the organic phase. The ethers as well as the aliphatic and cycloaliphatic ketones can be considered, such as, for example, diisopropyl ether, dibutyl ether, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, diisobutyl ketone, mesityl oxide.

It can be considered the esters can be considered, but they have the disadvantage of running the risk of being hydrolyzed. Esters capable of being used as those of the reaction of acids with Ci-Ce alcohols and, especially, the palmitates of secondary alcohols such as isopropanol can be included. For example, butyl acetate can be mentioned.

Of course, the organic phase can be based on a mixture of two or more hydrocarbons or compounds of the type described above.

In addition, the colloidal dispersions may comprise an amphiphilic agent.

The amphiphilic agent is at least in part, interacting, either by grafting or by electrostatic bonding, with the particles of the additive compound, in particular with a rare earth and / or iron compound.

This agent can be more particularly an acid.

The acid is selected more particularly from organic acids comprising at least 6 carbon atoms, still more preferably from 10 to 60 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 50 carbon atoms and even more preferably from 10 to 25 carbon atoms. .

These acids can be linear or branched. They may be aryl, aliphatic or arylaliphatic acids, possibly with other functions provided that these functions are stable in the environment in which the dispersions are to be used. Thus, for example, aliphatic carboxylic acids, aliphatic sulfonic acids, aliphatic phosphonic acids, alkylarylsulfonic acids and alkylaryl phosphonic acids having from about 10 to about 40 carbon atoms, either natural or synthetic, can be implemented. Of course, it is possible to use the acid mixture.

It is also possible to use carboxylic acids whose carbon chain has ketonic functions such as the substituted pyruvic acid alpha of the ketone function. These can also be alpha-acids carboxylic halogens or alpha-hydroxycarboxylic acids. The chain attached to the carboxylic group can have unsaturations. The chain may be interrupted by ether or ester functions provided that they do not excessively alter the lipophilicity of the carboxyl group carrier chain.

For example, the fatty acids of resin oil, soybean oil, tallow oil, linseed oil, oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid and its isomers, pelargonic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, 2-ethylhexanoic acid, naphthenic acid, hexoic acid, toluenesulfonic acid, toluene phosphonic acid, laurisulfonic acid, laurylfosphonic acid, palmityl sulfonic acid and palmityl phosphonic acid.

The amount of amphiphilic agent present in the dispersion can be defined by the molar ratio r: r = amphiphilic agent molar number / molar number of compound E For example, here, E is the additive such as rare earth or earth, iron or all rare earth (s) and iron, for example.

This molar ratio can comprise between 0.2 and 1, preferably between 0.4 and 0.8 The colloidal dispersions can be presented according to different modalities which will be described in more detail below and for which reference can be made to the entire description of the patent applications mentioned below.

A first embodiment corresponds to the description described in patent EP 671205. This dispersion comprises particles of cerium oxide, an amphiphilic acid compound and an organic phase, of the type described above, and is characterized in that the particles are of a maximum d90 of 200 nanometers. The present present dispersion also comprises at least one of the following characteristics: (I) the cerium oxide particles are in the form of agglomerates of crystallites, of which d80, advantageously d90, measured by photometric calculation (transmission electron microscope with high resolution) is at most equal to 5 nanometers, 90% (by weight) of the agglomerates comprise from 1 to 5, preferably from 1 to 3 crystallites, (ii) the amphiphilic acid compound comprises at least one acid from 1 to 50 atoms of carbon, which has at least one alpha, beta, gamma or delta branch of the atom that carries hydrogen acid.

Another fashion mode corresponds to the dispersion described in WO 97/19022 which concerns both cerium colloidal dispersions as colloidal dispersions of a mixed cerium compound and a metal selected from groups IVA, VIIA, VIII, IB, B , IIIB and IVB of the periodic table. This metal can be, mainly, iron. The dispersions described in WO 97/19022 comprise particles, an amphiphilic acid compound and an organic phase as described herein, and are characterized in that the particles are obtained by means of a process comprising the following steps: a) preparing a solution comprising at least one soluble salt, usually an acetate and / or chloride, cerium, optionally from another metal; b) bringing the solution into contact with a basic medium and maintaining the reaction mixture thus formed at a basic pH; c) recover the precipitate formed by atomization or lyophilization.

As colloidal dispersions used may be mentioned dispersions rare earth but also of a mixed compound of a metal selected from the MA groups, IVA, VIIA, IB, MB, IIIB and IVB and rare earth, as described in WO 01/10545. These organic colloidal dispersions comprising particles of a rare earth compound and optionally a metal compound precipitated in a portion of rare earth is preferably at least 0%, more particularly at least 20%, and even more particularly at least 50%, of moles in relation to the number of total moles of metallic elements plus rare earth expressed as elements. More particularly, rare earth can be cerium and metal, more particularly, iron. These dispersions comprise at least one preferably amphiphilic acid and at least one diluent, preferably polar, the latter being of the type described above. These dispersions are such that at least 90% of the particles are monocrystalline. In addition, the particles may have a d5o of between 1 and 5 nm, preferably between 2 and 3 nm.

As another embodiment, the dispersion described in the description of the patent application WO 03/053560 can be mentioned. Next, the characteristics of this dispersion will be mentioned again.

The particles of this dispersion have an iron compound base that is amorphous. This amorphous character can be detected by X-ray analysis, the obtained X-ray diagrams do not show, in fact, that in this case there is any significant peak.

According to a variant of this dispersion, at least 85%, more particularly at least 90% and still more particularly at least 95% of the particles, are primary particles. Primary particle means a particle that is perfectly individualized and that is not combined with another or with several other particles. This characteristic can be demonstrated by examination of dispersion by transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

The cryo-MET technique can also be used to determine the state of aggregation of the elementary particles. It can be observed through TEM samples remain frozen in its natural environment that may well be water or organic solvents such as aromatic or aliphatic solvents such as for example Solvesso and Isopar or certain alcohols such as ethanol.

The freezing is carried out in thin films of approximately 50 nm to 100 nm in thickness or in liquid ethane for the aqueous samples or in liquid nitrogen for others.

By means of cryo-MET, the dispersion state of the particles is well conserved and is representative of that present in the real environment.

The particles of this same colloidal dispersion can have a fine granulometry. In fact, they have a d50 between 1 nm and 5 nm, more particularly between 3 nm and 4 nm.

In general and only as an example, the concentration of the dispersion in iron comprises between 1 and 40% by weight of Fe203 iron oxide in relation to the total weight of the dispersion. Dispersions described in WO 2008/1 16550 based on iron particles, amorphous or preferably crystallized, and containing a hydrocarbon substituted with dicarboxylic acid having from 8 to 200 carbon atoms, such as a hydrocarbon with substitution of succinic acid.

Other additives The fuels can also contain other known types of additives, different from the BBFs and which have a different function to the catalytic function. These additives make it possible to improve the distribution of fuel in the engine and / or to improve the performance of the operation of the engine and / or also to improve the operating stability of the engine.

Among the additives to improve fuel distribution in the engine are, for example, anti-foam additives. Some diesel fuels tend to foam when pumped and muddy when filling the fuel tank. Additives of the organosilicon type used in volume concentrations of at least 10 ppm can reduce foam formation.

For example, other additives are de-icing additives. Free diesel water freezes at low temperatures. The resulting ice crystals can clog the fuel flow passages or fuel filters and block fuel passage. Low molecular weight alcohols or glycols can be added to the fuel to prevent the formation of ice.

Other additives are those that improve cold engine operation. Most of these additives are polymers that react with the crystals formed by the fuel when the latter cools below its cloud point. These polymers lighten the effect of the crystals in the fuel flow by changing their size, shape and / or degree of agglomeration. These additives make it possible to reduce the temperature at which the fuel becomes cloudy or freezes. Additives for improving typical cold properties are esterified copolymers of maleic anhydride and styrene and / or ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers.

You can also use the flow additives. For example, these flow additives comprise high molecular weight polymers that reduce turbulence in fluids and can increase the rate from 20 to 40%. Normally, these additives are used in concentrations below 15 ppm.

It is also possible to use corrosion inhibiting additives. These corrosion inhibitors are compounds that bind to metal surfaces and form a barrier that prevents attack by corrosive agents. Such additives are particularly interesting in the case where the fuel contains an easily oxidizable fraction such as a biofuel fraction such as an ester of vegetable oil or vegetable oil. Generally, 5 ppm to 15 ppm are used in the fuel.

Additives can also be used to improve the performance of the engines.

In fact, this class of additives allows to improve the performance of an engine, but the effects of different additives of this category are appreciated in different time intervals. For example, any benefit provided by a proventane additive is immediate, while the benefits of detergent-type additives or additives to improve lubricant power are appreciated in the long term, which are often measured after a few tens of thousands of kilometers tours of the vehicle.

For example, such additives of the ethane type allow to reduce the noise of combustion in the cylinders and the emission of smoke. The advantage of using such an additive varies according to the design of the motor and the mapping of the used motor. In general, the additives are based on organic nitrate such as 2-ethylhexyl nitrate (EHN). The EHN is thermally unstable and decomposes at high temperatures in the combustion chamber of the engine. These combustion products help the combustion of the engine and, Therefore, reduce the delay period of self-ignition of fuel. The increase of the cetane number in fuel for a given concentration of EHN varies from one fuel to another, specifically, depending on the fuel cetane number. In general, the EHN is used in a concentration range that varies from 0.05% by weight to 0.4% by weight and allows the fuel cetane number to be increased from 3 to 8 points. Other nitrates of alkyl or nitrates of ether and some nitroso compounds, are also possible additives of the type of ethane. Recently, di-tertiary butyl peroxide has been introduced into the market.

You can also use detergent additives. In fact, the fuel can form deposits in the fuel circuit, especially at the level of the high-pressure fuel injectors and, more particularly, especially at the level of the injector holes. The extension of the deposit formation varies with the design of the engine, mainly, with the characteristics of the injectors, the composition of the fuel and the composition of the lubricant. In particular, fuels that contain unstable components, such as fatty acid esters or, more generally, biofuels, tend to form more deposits than fossil fuels that do not. These detergents are also effective in reducing the negative impact of the presence of metallic compounds in the fuel such as Zn or Cu. For example, these compounds can originate from a contamination of the fuel distribution system or be waste from the compounds originated from the synthesis process of fatty acid esters.

For example, excessive deposits can alter the aerodynamics of the fuel jet injector, which in turn can make it difficult to mix air-fuel. In certain cases, it results in excessive fuel consumption, a loss of engine power and increased emissions of pollutants.

Detergent additives (polyisobutene succinimine amide or amine (PIBSA), ashless dimers, alkylphenol derivatives, fatty acid amides) can clean the injector and / or leave the injectors adequate. These additives are composed of a polar group that binds to the deposits and / or precursors of the deposit of a polar group that dissolves in the fuel. The detergent additives dissolve the deposits already formed and reduce the formation of deposit precursors to prevent the formation of new deposits.

New detergents are particularly effective at low doses, usually at less than 150 ppm by weight in the fuel, or even less than 100 ppm. With reference to this, reference can be made to the description of WO 2010 / 50040. The detergents described in this patent application comprise a quaternary ammonium salt and, optionally, an oxygen compound. The quaternary ammonium salt may comprise the reaction product of: (i) at least one compound comprises: (a) the condensation product of an acylating agent substituted by a hydrocarbyl and a compound having an oxygen or nitrogen atom capable of condensing the acylating agent and wherein the condensation product has at least one tertiary amino group, (b) an amine substituted by a polyalkene having at least one an amine tertiary amino group, or (c) a Mannich reaction product having at least one tertiary amino group and wherein the Mannich reaction product is derived from a phenol substituted by a hydrocarbyl, an aldehyde and an amine, and (ii) a quaternizing agent capable of converting the tertiary amino group of the quaternary nitrogen compound (i).

The quaternary ammonium salt may also comprise the reaction product of: (I) the reaction of an acylating agent substituted by a hydrocarbyl and of a compound having an oxygen or nitrogen atom capable of condensing with the acylating agent and which further comprises at least one tertiary amino group and (ii) a quaternizing agent comprising dialkyl sulfates, benzyl halides, hydrocarbyl substituted carbonates, hydrocarbyl epoxides, optionally in combination with an acid, or mixtures thereof.

The acylation agent substituted with a hydrocarbyl can be succinic polyisobutylene anhydride and the compound having an oxygen or nitrogen atom capable of condensing with said acylating agent can be dimethylaminopropylamine, N-methyl-1,3-diaminopropane, N, N-dimethylaminopropylamine,?,? -diethyl-aminopropylamine, N, N-dimethylaminoethylamine, diethylenetriamine, dipropylenetrimine, dibutylenetrimine, triethylenetetraamine, tetraethylenepentamine, pentaethylene-hexaamine, hexamethylenetetramine, and bis (hexamethylene) triamine.

For example, mention may be made of the quaternary ammonium salts described above, the succinimide derivatives and prepared from dimethylaminopropyl succinimide, 2-ethylhexyl alcohol and acetic acid. The oxygenated detergent can be of the polyisobutylene acid type such as those obtained by reaction between a polyisobutylene of vinylidene of about 1000 mole weight and maleic anhydride after hydrolysis. These two types of detergent molecules can be related in different proportions.

Here, a particular embodiment of the invention should be considered in which the additive is a combination of (1) a colloidal dispersion of particles comprising an organic phase and at least one amphiphilic agent of the type described above and (2) of a detergent based on a quaternary ammonium salt of the type described in the aforementioned WO 2010/150040 patent application.

For this specific mode combination that has been described above, mainly with respect to the application WO 2010/150040, here it is applied for the detergent (2). On the other hand, the colloidal dispersion (1) can be more particularly one of those described in the patent applications EP 671205, WO 01/10545 and WO 03/053560 mentioned above. In these colloidal dispersions, the particles can be based, in particular, on cerium and / or iron.

The additives to improve the lubricity can also be used to avoid the seizing of the pumps and the injectors, in particular, of high pressure due to the poor lubricating power of the fuels. These contain a polar group that is attracted by the metal surfaces to form a protective film on the surface. The film acts like an oil when two metal surfaces come into contact. These additives are commonly composed of fatty carboxylic acids or esters. The fatty carboxylic acids are used in the concentration range of 10 ppm to 50 ppm. In general, the esters are used at the level of 50 ppm to 250 ppm by weight in the fuel.

Smoke inhibitor additives can also be used. Some organometallic compounds act as catalysts for combustion. For example, one can cite the effectiveness of iron-based metallic additives, such as ferrocene. Certain manganese-based compounds can also reduce the emissions of black fumes resulting from incomplete combustion. However, these manganese-based metal compounds may be banned in some countries due to potential toxicity.

^ Additives that reduce friction losses reduce friction in the fuel circuit, which also results in increased fuel consumption. In some vehicles, the fuel savings exceeds 4% that was observed during the tests. To these Additives are also called FM additives "friction modifiers" or "extreme pressure" additives.

In the same way additives can be considered to improve the stability of the operation of the engines can be considered. The instability of the fuels causes the formation of gums that participate in the fouling of the injectors, the obstruction of the fuel filter and the obstruction of the pumps and the injection system. These additives have functions that are determined by their use in a suitable fuel or not.

It is also possible to use additives of the antioxidant type. Oxidation is a mode of fuel instability. The oxygen in the small amount of air dissolved in the fuel attacks the reactive compounds present in the fuel. Oxidation is the result of a succession of complex mechanisms. Antioxidants work by interrupting these mechanisms. Clogged branched phenols, such as diterbutylphene or derivatives and certain amines, such as phenylenediamine, are the most commofound antioxidants. In fact they are used in a concentration range of 10 ppm to 80 ppm.

Stabilizing additives can also be used. Acid-base reactions are another mode of fuel instability. The stabilizing additives that prevent these reactions are strong basic compounds based on amines and are used in the concentration range from 50 ppm to 150 ppm. They react with weak acids to form products that dissolve in the fuel but can not react. Some detergents such as nitrogen detergents described above may also be effective in neutralizing the weak acids present in the fuel.

Metal deactivating additives can also be considered. The metals present in the trace state (for example, Cu and Zn) are sufficient to accelerate the degradation of the fuel. Deactivators, such as aromatic triazoles or their derivatives, neutralize their catalytic effects. They are used in a concentration range of 1 ppm to 15 ppm.

Finally, dispersant additives can also be provided. These dispersant additives do not prevent a fuel instability reaction, but disperse the formed particles and prevent the agglomeration of particles large enough to clog or block the fuel filter or injectors. Dispersing additives are used in a concentration range of 15 ppm to 100 ppm.

The device according to the invention allows adding one or more additives of those described herein, FBC or others to the fuel. The person skilled in the art performs the choice of additives, takes into account, for example, the geographical area in which the vehicle will be marketed, the quality of the fuel available in this area, the presence of biofuels in this area or atmospheric conditions. they are there.

According to a particular embodiment, the additive is a combination of a detergent additive and a lubricant additive.

The choice of additives can also be made in terms of the regulations that regulate the emission levels of pollutants in this same area. In areas where the FAP is required to comply with anti-pollution regulations on soot emissions, it is advantageous to incorporate a BCF additive to help regenerate the FAP. Advantageously, a FBC with catalysed filter, ie, a filter containing a soot oxidation catalyst and / or oxidation of incombustible gases (such as CO or hydrocarbons) and / or soot oxidation housed in the FAP. A CRT-type system can also be placed upstream of the FAP.

The selection of the composition of the additive can also be made in accordance with the technology of the vehicle engine as well as the nature and design of the high-pressure fuel injectors, the type of fuel filter or also the pressure of the system of injection Common rail system or common injection ramp that feeds any of the injectors by means of pressurized fuel.

The selection of the additives can also be done according to the mapping of the polluting emissions of the engine.

In case the vehicle is equipped with a device for reducing soot emissions (FAP, CSF, CRT ...), it will be advantageous to introduce a FBC catalyst in the additive. The element concentration The active FBC metallic in the additive must be calculated in such a way that the device allows adding an amount of metal to the fuel sufficient to allow a gain in the efficiency of the FAP regeneration. This gain can be manifested through a decrease in the soot loading rate of the FAP or the reduction in the increase of its pressure against time. It can also be manifested as a reduction in the initial temperature of the combustion or by a reduction of the equilibrium point of the temperature of the FAP device, the point of equilibrium is defined as the temperature at which the soot is burned at an equivalent rate to the emission of soot from the engine. It can also manifest as a faster regeneration of the FAP and / or a lower temperature. For example, for a particular vehicle equipped with a 2L high pressure direct injection engine and running on an iron-based FBC, the benefit is seen if the concentration of iron in the fuel is between 1 ppm and 50 ppm, more particularly between 2 and 20 ppm, this amount is expressed by weight of metallic iron in relation to the weight of the fuel.

In the case of a vehicle equipped with a FAP, it is advantageous to combine this FBC with at least one additive for fuel efficiency as a detergent. Patent application WO 2010/150040 describes an advantageous relationship between an iron-based FBC additive and a nitrogen-containing detergent. In this case, the relationship between the two components must be such that the necessary amount of BCF and the necessary amount of detergent are supplied.

In the case of a vehicle equipped with a FAP, it will also be advantageous to combine several fuel efficiency additives with the FBC, especially when the vehicle is sold in a geographical area where the fuel is of variable and / or mediocre quality. Combinations such as a FBC, one or more detergents, a lubricant additive and a corrosion inhibitor can be particularly advantageous for, on the one hand, helping to regenerate the FAP in all conditions, mainly urban walking and, on the other hand, improving the fuel flow in the engine, the performance of the engine and the operating stability of the engine. The additive will contain proportions of each component so that the supply in the fuel, in addition to the FBC additive, is of the order of 20 to 150 ppm of detergent, in the order of 10 to 80 ppm additive lubricant and approximately 20 to 150 ppm of additive corrosion inhibitor.

Depending on the case, these rates may be modulated (increased or reduced), especially in the quality of the fuel and / or in the technology of the engines (for example, the type of high pressure injectors, the injection pressure).

In the case of a vehicle not equipped with FAP, different types of combinations of fuel additives can be considered, such as the combination of one or more detergents with the lubricant additive and a corrosion inhibitor. The additive will contain proportions of each component so that the supply in the fuel is of the order of 20 to 150 ppm of detergent, of the order of 10 to 80 ppm lubricant additive and of the order of 20 to 150 ppm of corrosion inhibiting additive. Again, these rates can be modulated (increased or reduced), especially in the quality of the fuel and / or in the technology of the engines (for example, the type of high pressure injectors, the injection pressure).

In certain cases, especially in the presence of combistants containing easily oxidizable fractions such as biofuels, such as the fatty acids of metal esters, advantageously, an antioxidant additive can be combined.

Claims

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS

1. A device for distributing a liquid additive in a circuit (1) of fuel flow for an internal combustion engine, said circuit allows the flow in a vehicle of a fuel between the interior of a fuel tank (2) and the engine, said device comprises a deposit (12) of additive liquid that allows an additive to be released in the fuel flow circuit (1) by means of a distribution channel (16), characterized in that it comprises an additive container (22) communicating with the fuel flow circuit (1) and at least one wall (32, 33, 34) mobile and hermetic between said additive container (22) and the reservoir (12) of additive and which serves, on the one hand, as a hermetic separation and, on the other hand, to maintain an identical pressure between the additive in the additive tank (12) and the fuel in the additive container (22) .

2. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises: an orifice (13) fuel input; a fuel outlet hole (14); an orifice (17) for distributing the additive, which is different from the fuel inlet and outlet ports; and a means for generating a negative pressure between the orifice (17) for distributing the additive and the fuel inlet (13) or outlet (14), the orifice (17) for distributing an additive is disposed at the level of said means for generating a negative pressure that is in the form of a diaphragm or a diffuser (21).

3. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to claim 1, further characterized in that the additive reservoir (12) is present in the form of a flexible bag (32) and in that said flexible bag (32) forms the movable and hermetic wall.

4. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to claim 1, further characterized in that the mobile and hermetic wall is formed by a membrane (33).

5. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to claim 1, further characterized in that the mobile and hermetic wall is formed by a piston (34).

6. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of claims 1 to 5, further characterized in that it comprises a channel (16) for distributing an additive and a means (15) for total or partial sealing of the distribution channel (16) additive, the channel (16) for distributing the additive ensures the passage of liquid additive from the tank (12) towards the orifice (17) of additive distribution.

7. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to claim 6, further characterized in that the sealing means (15) of the additive distribution channel is an electromechanical means.

8. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of claims 1 to 7, further characterized in that it comprises a fuel filtering device comprising at least one filtering element (25).

9. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to claim 8, further characterized in that the filtering element (25) is annular in shape and the additive reservoir (12) is arranged concentrically inside said filtering element ( 25).

10. The device for dispensing a liquid additive according to claim 8, further characterized in that the filtering element (25) is annular in shape and the additive reservoir (12) is arranged concentrically on the outside of said filtering element ( 25).

The device for distributing a liquid additive according to claim 8, further characterized in that the filtering element (25) and the additive reservoir (12) are axially superimposed.

12. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of claims 8 to 11, further characterized in that the fuel passes through the filtration element (25), which defines an upstream side (28), which is located between the fuel tank (2) and the filtering element (25), wherein the unfiltered fuel flow and a downstream side (29), are disposed between the filtering element (25) and the combustion engine, in where the filtered fuel flows and because the additive is released from the upstream side (28).

13. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of claims 8 to 11, further characterized in that the fuel passes through the filtration element (25), which defines an upstream side (28), which is located between the fuel tank (2) and the filtration element (25), where the fuel flow is not Filtered and a downstream side (29), are arranged between the filtering element (25) and the internal combustion engine, where the filtered fuel flows and because the additive is released from the downstream side (29).

14. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of claims 1 to 11, further characterized in that said additive is released in the return line (6) of fuel of the internal combustion engine, downstream of the injection system and toward the fuel tank (2).

15. The device for dispensing a liquid additive according to any of claims 8 to 13, further characterized in that the movable wall (32, 33, 34) is disposed between the additive reservoir (12) and the upstream side (28).

16. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of claims 8 to 13, further characterized in that the movable wall (32, 33, 34) is disposed between the additive reservoir (12) and the downstream side (29).

7. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of claims 8 to 13, further characterized in that it comprises, on the one hand, a diffusion head (10) to be fixedly mounted in the fuel flow circuit (1) and that includes a channel (17) of additive distribution in the fuel flow circuit (1) and, on the other hand, a cartridge (1 1) comprising the filtering element (25), the additive reservoir (12) and the movable wall and hermetic (32), said cartridge (11) is removably mounted in the diffusion head (10).

18. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that the additive container (22) is disposed in the fuel tank (2) of the vehicle.

19. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that said circuit (1) also ensures the return flow of the engine fuel to the interior of said fuel tank (2).

20. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that the additive is a particle filter regeneration additive based on a rare earth and / or a metal selected from the groups MA, IVA, VIIA , VIII, IB, MB, IIIB and IVB of the periodic table.

21. The device for dispensing a liquid additive according to claim 20, further characterized in that the additive is present in the form of a colloidal dispersion.

22. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to claim 21, further characterized in that the particles of the colloidal dispersion are based on cerium and / or iron.

23. The device for distributing a liquid additive according to any of claims 20 to 22, further characterized in that the additive is a combination of a colloidal dispersion of particles comprising an organic phase and at least an amphiphilic agent and a detergent based of a quaternary ammonium salt.

24. The device for dispensing a liquid additive according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that the additive is a combination of a detergent additive and a lubricant additive.